Skills and Technical Requirements for Online Classes

Minimum System Requirements to take online courses: https://www.vinu.edu/web/center-for-teaching-and-learning/system-requirements

The following skills a beneficial to possess if you plan on taking online classes:

• Strong reading and writing skills, self-discipline and time management skills, problem solving and critical thinking skills

• Knowledge of basic computer terminology such as:
  • drop down menu, log in, username, program, upload, website…

• Ability to perform basic computer operations, such as:
  • Using keyboard and mouse
  • Managing files and folders: save, name, copy, move, backup, rename, delete, check properties     
  • Knowledge of copying and pasting, spell-checking, saving files in different formats
  • Sending and downloading attachments                                                             

• Understanding basic computer hardware and software, such as:
  • Software installation, security and virus protection
  • Using software applications, such as Word, PowerPoint, Excel, email clients

• Ability to use online communication tools, such as:
  • Email (create, send, receive, reply, print, send/receive attachments)
  • Discussion boards (read, search, post, reply, follow threads), chats, and messengers.

• Additional Internet skills, such as:
  • Connecting, accessing, and using browsers
  • Ability to perform online research using various search engines and library databases.